What are the most elitist universities, and does it affect student life?

I've been reading about elitism in universities and I'm curious about which ones are considered the most elitist. Does attending such a university impact student life or opportunities after graduation in any way?

The notions of "elitism" in universities can be a bit subjective and can refer to several aspects, such as selectivity in admissions, prestige of the institution, the socioeconomic status of the student body, or even institutional attitudes and cultural norms of the university.

Traditionally, the Ivy League colleges - Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Dartmouth, Brown, University of Pennsylvania, and Cornell - are often labeled as more "elitist" due to their historical prestige, exclusivity, and the affluence of a proportion of their student body. However, it's important to note that many of these colleges have made significant efforts in recent years to attract a more diverse student body.

There are also universities like Stanford and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) which, though not part of the Ivy League, have similarly selective admissions processes and prestige, often leading to similar labels.

Being at a university that has an "elitist" vibe can impact student life in different ways. Many students appreciate the academic rigor, the opportunities for research, the networking opportunities, and the connections that come with attending such institutions. Moreover, the career opportunities and earning potential after graduation can be significant.

On the other hand, some students may feel pressure or experience impostor syndrome due to the competitive nature of these schools. There can also be a certain level of cultural and financial divide between students. For example, wealthier students may be able to afford certain experiences and opportunities that are not as accessible to lower-income students.

However, it's important that prospective students visit these campuses if possible, speak to current students, and do their own research to get a more nuanced understanding of what life at these universities is really like. This can help in deciding if these environments will be a good fit for them.